The BYU Cougars reclaimed their winning momentum by defeating Oklahoma State 85-69 at the Marriott Center. After a challenging stretch, this victory marks a significant turnaround for the team, now standing at 11-5 overall and 2-3 in Big 12 matchups. Despite a commanding first half, the Cougars faced an intense comeback from Oklahoma State in the second half. Key players like Dallin Hall and Fousseyni Traore played pivotal roles in securing the win, while freshman Egor Demin showcased a resurgence of form.

A Strong Start Turned Rocky

The Cougars began the game with exceptional performance, leading by as much as 27 points during the first half. This dominant start seemed to signal an end to their recent struggles. However, the second half proved far more challenging. Oklahoma State mounted a formidable comeback, narrowing the gap to just three points midway through. The game that was initially expected to be a blowout turned into a nail-biter, forcing the Cougars to fight hard for their eventual 16-point victory.

In the initial stages, BYU's offense flowed smoothly, capitalizing on multiple scoring opportunities. The team's shooting efficiency was evident, hitting 51.9% from the field and 42.9% from beyond the arc. Assist distribution was also strong, with 18 assists recorded. Yet, turnovers continued to plague the Cougars, totaling 14 giveaways. The referees were active throughout, calling 38 fouls, adding another layer of complexity to the game. Despite these challenges, BYU managed to maintain control and secure a crucial win.

Key Performances Steer the Victory

Veteran players like Dallin Hall and Fousseyni Traore were instrumental in stabilizing the team during Oklahoma State's surge. Hall delivered a season-high 14 points, including critical 3-pointers that provided breathing room when the lead was slim. Traore added seven points, seven rebounds, and three assists, contributing significantly to both ends of the court. Trevin Knell and Richie Saunders combined for 30 points, while Keba Keita nearly achieved a double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds.

Freshman Egor Demin's resurgence was one of the highlights of the night. After struggling earlier in the game, Demin found his rhythm in the second half, scoring 10 points within a four-minute span. His performance included eight assists, five rebounds, two steals, and two blocks. Most importantly, Demin's renewed confidence can be a vital asset as BYU looks to build momentum heading into future Big 12 contests and potentially the NCAA Tournament. The Cougars' ability to rally together under pressure demonstrated their resilience and depth, setting a positive tone for upcoming matches.